16/02/2006 - In the Midlands, hundreds of households and
businesses that could receive flood warnings have currently
not signed up to receive them, putting people and property
at unnecessary risk. Across England and Wales, an average
of 70% of people at risk have yet to join the service.
Now in an effort to get thousands more people signed up
to the service, the Environment Agency is running a recruitment
campaign. We are writing to all those at flood risk in the
Midlands who could receive the Flood Warnings Direct service
but who haven’t yet registered, to invite them to sign up.
Floodline Warnings Direct is a free flood warning service
that provides warnings direct by telephone, mobile, fax
or pager to those at risk. People can register with the
service by completing the post paid return form we have
sent them or by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188.
Previously we have only been able to offer warnings to
a limited number of people, however following the expansion
of our flood warning system, we can offer the service to
a much wider audience.
John Buckingham, Area Flood Risk Manager, says: "All
too often lack of preparation is the biggest factor in why
a flood devastates a home or business, but it needn’t be
that way.
"If you receive a letter from us inviting you to join
Floodline Warnings Direct, I urge you to do so. Floods can’t
be prevented, but Floodline Warnings Direct provides you
with an early warning to help keep your family safe and
save your home from ruin."
"Flooding can’t be prevented but Floodline Warnings
Direct provides people with an early warning to help them
prepare in advance of a flood," John added.
Since January 2006, our flood warnings have been simpler
and more focused:
A ‘Flood Watch’ will provide a warning of flooding to low
lying land and roads. This will relate to easily understood
geographical areas, such as the ‘Upper Tame’.
A ‘Flood Warning’ will now mean that flooding of homes and
business is expected.
A ‘Severe Flood Warning’ will be issued when there is extreme
danger to life and property.
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